Every day presents opportunities to "work wonders" no matter how small and insignificant we might think our actions are. Sir Michael encouraged everyone to see opportunities in the most unlikely places. There are unmet needs all around us.
He has been asked numerous times, probably now by every political party, to consider standing for Parliament. He once told me the timing wasn't right. But I don't know if I would like to see him in Parliament. I'm sure the majority of people who enter Parliament do so wanting to make a difference. But they get worn down within a short time. Things take forever to change and that gets frustrating. And over time many parliamentarians get further and further removed from the people who voted for them.
The adversarial environment too doesn't suit everyone. If I was a political party leader I would invite Sir Michael to spend a little time each month with my team encouraging "working wonders". If the top team doesn't have a compelling enlightening vision you can bet those trying to implement change will struggle.
The newly elected Labour leader Jacinda Ardern will have her work cut out over the next few weeks. As the sixth Labour leader in nine years she'll be expected to work wonders.
She has already promised Labour will be "fighting the election of our lives". Political and media commentators have mixed reactions - she's up for it, left it too late, still too young, never been in Cabinet or a cabinet minister before. Their predictions are as good as anyone else's. If a week is a long time in politics think of what Jacinda can do in 50 days.
Since the announcement of the change in Labour's leader I wanted to get the reactions of young people. What do they think of the change, Jacinda as leader? I have spoken to 19 young women who will be voting in their first election next month. They are very happy to see Jacinda in the job. It appears for no other reason than "I can relate to her. She's young and I think she'll be interested in the things that matter to me".
Not one had any idea of the policies Labour was promoting. That didn't seem to matter to them. How do you reach a young, largely disengaged population and at the same time still remain relevant to your core voters?
All political parties must be wondering that at the moment.
Sir Michael spoke about giving people hope. Especially those who have seen no light at the end of the tunnel for years. They should matter too.
He encouraged everyone to "work wonders". A simple, powerful message. Keep it simple Jacinda. Kia kaha.
